The situation for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) is serious. If not addressed soon, we may see a “lost generation” of young people, according to a recent report from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
The PAC report highlights that nearly half of local authorities struggling to provide support are facing financial ruin. Families across the country are experiencing inconsistencies in service access, which creates a “postcode lottery” for support services.
The government has come under fire for not delivering better outcomes for these children and failing to provide solutions amidst rising demand and financial stress on local councils. According to Joey Nettleton Burrows of the National Autistic Society, many children cannot access necessary help and are missing out on valuable educational years. Families are left to fight long battles to secure support, which adds to their stress.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has acknowledged the report but has asked for patience as they try to address these issues. However, many believe that there is no time to waste. Experts advocate for improvements in mainstream schools to better support SEND children, more special schools, and the hiring of specialized staff.
Parents often wait years just to receive a diagnostic assessment for their children. Even once assessments are complete, many find themselves appealing for Education, Health, and Care Plans (EHCPs) in court, putting additional stress on families and local authorities. For many parents, this struggle entails significant emotional and financial sacrifice.
To create meaningful change, experts believe we need to rethink how we approach learning for diverse needs. Many view diverse learners as costly, which leads to their exclusion. Although there is growing awareness of diversity in education, policies often simplify or overlook these needs. Education leaders need to ensure that the system removes barriers to learning rather than creating them.
In an October report, the National Audit Office called for comprehensive reform of the SEND system. It currently functions as a battleground where cash-strapped councils and desperate families clash over resources. The government has previously indicated that any changes will take time, focusing on strengthening mainstream provisions and early intervention.
Although the government plans to address some financial deficits in local authorities, it is clear that money alone cannot resolve SEND children’s educational needs. Experts suggest that we need better-trained professionals in schools and honest discussions among parents about their children’s requirements. Everyone must adjust their expectations about how much improvement can be achieved with limited funding.
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